Nara didn't hold back when describing her emotions following the victory, per Ben Rothenberg of the New York Times: "This is the biggest win for my career, so I’m very happy."

Mark J. Terrill/Associated Press

Williams, who had boycotted the tournament the past 14 years after she was booed when she withdrew for a scheduled match against Serena, seemed to find a silver lining on the day, per Rothenberg.

"Just being here, just being on the practice court and on site has been so positive and such a great experience," she said. "It just shows that, yeah, you know, that you can always come back home, I guess. You can always go home."

Elsewhere, Simona Halep eased into the third round with a comprehensive 6-1, 6-1 victory over home favourite Vania King.

The American failed to win a single service game on the day, with Halep simply too good from the back of the court.

The first round of the men's singles got under way on Friday, as Juan Martin del Potro returned to the BNP Paribas Open stage with a straight-sets victory over qualifier Tim Smyczek.

J Pat Carter/Associated Press

The Argentinian hasn't played at Indian Wells since back in 2013, but he appeared at home on the court and dropped just 11 service points in his 6-4, 6-0 triumph.

Despite his solid performance, Del Potro admitted after the match he expected to struggle on Centre Court but conceded his display was the result of hard work, via ATP World Tour:

I think I played well, but I am so happy to be playing tennis again. I missed the sport a lot, suffering at home as I tried to fix my wrist. It's great to be at this big tournament, playing on Centre Court and being around the top guys. It's very positive just to be here. I think I surprised myself with my level. I didn't expect to play that well tonight. I have worked hard to be competitive.

The 27-year-old will face sixth seed Tomas Berdych in the second round, and his excellent record against the Czech star suggests he could surprise himself yet again.

World No. 92 Marcel Granollers enjoyed a similarly easy day at the office, as he needed just 60 minutes to dispose of Damir Dzumhur 6-1, 6-0.

The Spaniard won't have it so simple in Round 2, though, as he takes on Andy Murray.

Matches continue on Saturday and start at 11 a.m. in Stadiums 1-7 and 9. American Jack Sock kicks off the action on Saturday, as he meets German Michael Berrer, who emerged victorious from a gruelling three-setter against Juan Monaco on Friday.